Duke, a Chihuahua mix, did not stand a chance against the prowling mountain lion that visited his San Fernando Valley, Calif., yard early Tuesday morning, reported NBC Los Angeles.

Duke's owner, Harry Terdarsagyan, was alerted to the problem when he woke to frantic barking around 2 a.m.

Terdarsagyan looked out the window to the yard where Duke had been sleeping and saw the 20-pound dog being dragged away.

He told NBC Los Angeles:

He was fighting for his life.

Duke is not the only dog to fall victim to mountain lions in the area; just one week ago, an 80-pound boxer disappeared after a mountain lion was observed on a surveillance camera in the same area.

The homes in this neighborhood are close to the hills where the mountain lions reside.

Residents in the area are hoping that local officials will do something to prevent another attack from taking place.

In the meantime, homeowners in the area should take precautions on behalf of their pets and ensure that they are not left outside unattended.

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